Sustaining man’s ‘liquid asset’

Unless terribly thirsty, chances are one takes drinking water for granted. But, no matter what, for our own good, water deserves our fullest attention as one of the body’s most essential substances.

And why not, a homo sapien is mostly water. Something like 55 to 75 percent of a grown-up’s body is liquid. That means even without realizing it, each person is carrying some 10 to 12 gallons of water every second of his or her life. But that’s "liquid asset."

Of course, the body’s water load varies from person to person. The leaner one is, the higher the proportion of water in the body. Men carry a lot more water than women simply because the male body has more muscles. Muscle tissue is about 73 percent water.

It isn’t the hot or humid atmosphere or weather that makes one thirst for water. Not even a grueling gym workout would compel one to gulp down a glass of water. Indeed, cold weather leads to an increased need for fluids.

Why? When the temperature drops, the body works double time to keep a normal temperature. What’s more, heated room air can cause skin to dry up. It’s thus important to note that thirst is actually a sign of dehydration or lack of fluid in the body.

To avoid problems brought about by dehydration, experts encourage drinking water before, during and after working out, and even before we experience thirst.

Plain water may be a no-no for a lot of guys. But in taking cola drinks with its load of calories, one misses out on calcium, riboflavin and Vitamins A and C. Coffee and tea, which are caffeine-based, serve as diuretics. Certainly, not alcoholic drinks.

Why not take fruit-flavored mineral water in bottles? John Springs Corp. of ATT-Aqua Treatment Technology is offering its healthy, zero-calorie lemon, red apple, peach, guyabano, melon and orange water – your favorite fruit in refreshing water. Call 742-9544 or 742-9202.